A 12-month ban imposed on Cork City owner Tom Coughlan by the FAI for bringing the game into disrepute would be disastrous for the viability of the club, it was claimed in the High Court yesterday.

When judicial review proceedings aimed at quashing the disciplinary committee's finding of December 17 began yesterday, counsel for Coughlan said his client does not accept that he has brought the game into disrepute.

Furthermore, Coughlan claims that he was denied fair procedures when an FAI disciplinary committee refused to adjourn a meeting being held to consider a disrepute charge against him arising out of his actions in connection with the club during the 2009 season. Problems occurred because the club was had serious financial difficulties and not because of any disregard for the club's obligations, counsel said.

Counsel for the FAI said that his client is a private sporting body and is not amenable or subject to judicial review.

The FAI claims Coughlan has the right of an appeal against the decision but had not taken that option. It denies that Coughlan was denied fair procedures and says the committee acted fairly in the circumstances. The hearing, before Mr Justice John Hedigan, is expected to conclude today.